Where to Stay

The city is known as the Ciudad de Palacios (City of Palaces) for its exquisite colonial architecture, making way for a modern cosmopolitan urban landscape. There is an array of hotel accommodations, which afford a variety of options to suit each traveler's preference, whether it's a small guesthouse or a world class hotel. Some areas are better suited to the tourist for their convenience and should be considered upon choosing adequate lodging.

Centro Histórico

This area in the city center is known as the Centro Histórico for its colonial buildings, cathedrals and houses. The narrow streets bear names commemorating the city's most momentous historic events. Avenida 16 de Septiembre harbors the stately centuries old Gran Hotel de la Ciudad de Mexico. A wonderful Art Nouveau building with an impressive glass dome, its terraces overlook the Zócalo and is ideal for witnessing the annual Independence Day Celebrations (September 15 and 16) presided over by the Republic's president. The more contemporary Hotel J.W. Marriott, is located nearby and a convenient distance from the Catedral Metropolitana and the government's Palacio Nacional, built by the conquistador Hernán Cortes.

Avenida de la Reforma

Avenida de la Reforma is one of the most important avenues in the city. It is said that Empress Carlota had it built to emulate Paris' Champs Elysees, and in order to observe Maximilian of Hapsburg as he made his way toward the Palacio Nacional. Many hotels, most of them belonging to international or national chains, now flank this avenue. The María Isabel-Sheraton Hotel faces the Monumento a la Independencia, or El Ángel. Other hotels in the area are the elegant Hotel Emporio, the modern Hotel Fiesta Americana Reforma and the international Four Seasons Hotel.

Zona Rosa

Located near Avenida de la Reforma and adjacent to the city center, the Zona Rosa is ideal for its nightlife with a wide array of bars and discotheques situated throughout the area. The Holiday Inn and Galería Plaza Hotel both offer refined modern amenities. The Hotel del Angel is located near the Monumento del Ángel de la Independencia as is the Hotel Misión Park, both of which provide convenience of location and comfort with all the classic amenities.

Chapultepec

Heading south along Avenida de la Reforma, the expansive area known as Bosques de Chapultepec offers several choices including the Hotel Presidente Intercontinental and the Camino Real Mexico. Also in the area are the upscale W Mexico City and the Four Seasons Hotel.